South Central Railway (SCR) General Manager PK Srivastava who inspected Tirupati railway station here on Monday insisted the officials to give priority for improving upkeep of the station premises, especially the toilets.

Srivastava who arrived here after visiting Renigunta railway station, inspected AC waiting halls, cloak room, general upkeep in various places and other facilities in Tirupati railway station.

He inaugurated the 40 kilowatt power solar power panels which will help in cutting down the electricity bill of the railway station, by harnessing natural energy source and also the new AC dormitory.

Leaders of various political parties met Srivastava representing on several issues.  Congress leader M Devanarayana Reddy in his representation pressed for early creation of Balaji division with Tirupati as its headquarter, development of railway station on the south side, for the benefit of the localities in the southern part of the town, introduction of train service between Tirupati and Shirdi, extending Simhapuri Express up to Renigunta and also setting up Run-off River (ROR) water plant in the station to ensure safe drinking water to passengers. Muslim minority leaders led by Murthuja appealed for permitting Muslims to perform prayers in the Edga ground which the railway authorities are using as its RPF parade ground, on special festive occasions.

Later speaking to media before holding a discussion with officials, Srivastava said the railways had already paid Rs 13.5 crore for the land required for the development on the south side of the railway station which will be taken up soon.

Replying for a question on inadequate police personnel in the station, he said 30 percent of the posts are vacant which would be filled up soon to ensure security in the station where thousands of pilgrims daily arrive from various places.

He expressed satisfaction over the maintenance and facilities, lifts, escalators etc., being provided in the railway station for passengers.

Divisional Railway Manager Manohar Joshi, Commercial Manager Lakshmi Narayana, Chief Engineer JSP Singh, Station Manager Gangulappa, Liaison Officer Satyanarayana and others were present.